Ischia and Procida are hidden gems in the Gulf of Naples, volcanic islands where time moves to the rhythm of waves and the scent of lemon trees drifts through salty air. Here you'll discover hidden beaches, colourful villages clinging to rocky cliffs, and a cuisine that tells stories of sea and land. Far from chaos yet easily reached from Naples, these islands offer an authentic experience of authentic Campania.
The Landscape
Ischia, the larger of the two Campanian islands, is dominated by Monte Epomeo, an extinct volcano 788 metres high offering unforgettable panoramas across the archipelago and mainland. The coastline is jagged, alternating between black volcanic sand beaches and sheer cliffs dropping into the sea. Procida, smaller and more intimate, is an island of many facets: Porto as its beating heart, Marina Grande, the colourful Marina Corricella, and hinterland covered in lemon groves and olive trees. The volcanic landscape remains active: natural hot springs emerge from the waters, offering unique thermal bathing experiences at sea. Both islands breathe pure Mediterranean atmosphere.
History and Folklore
Ischia and Procida hold stories of Greek colonisers, Saracen pirates and fishermen who challenged the waves for centuries. Procida is famous for the legend of the Basilica dell'Assunta, where the Virgin allegedly protected the island from Barbary corsairs in the 16th century. The coastal towers still visible testify to those turbulent times. Ischia, meanwhile, preserves the myth of the Aragonese Castle built in 474 BC, where monks and inhabitants sought refuge from enemy raids. In local folklore, sirens are said to still inhabit hidden caves and deep waters around Punta Imperatore. Craft traditions—from coral working to cloth weaving—remain alive in the daily gestures of island women.
What to Eat
The cuisine of Ischia and Procida is a hymn to the sea and the generosity of volcanic land. Rabbit stew, a traditional island dish, is celebrated at Ischia's Festa del Coniglio (September). Taste the Protected Designation Limoncello di Procida DOP, made by skilled local hands, and Ischia's Pomodoro di Pachino IGP. Ischia's pasta alla genovese, prepared with sweet onion and rigatoni, is a must. Scialatielli with seafood, featuring freshly caught clams and scampi, represents the essence of seafaring cuisine. Don't miss local panettone and soft nougat made at home during the Christmas season.
What to Drink
Wine is integral to Ischia's identity. Fiano d'Ischia DOC, a mineral white reflecting volcanic soil, pairs beautifully with fish dishes. Nero d'Avola d'Ischia DOC offers body and elegance. For wine lovers, visit historic cellars in Forio and Sant'Angelo where winemaking tradition spans generations. Limoncello di Procida DOP is the perfect after-dinner digestif, aromatic and refreshing. Don't miss Passito d'Ischia, sweet and complex, ideal with island desserts.
When to Visit
Spring (April-May) is ideal: mild temperatures, blooming flowers and manageable crowds. September brings Ischia's Festa del Coniglio and still-warm beaches. Summer (June-August) attracts crowds but offers full seaside enjoyment. December brings Procida's Festa dell'Immacolata with evocative processions. Visiting off-season in autumn or winter rewards you with authenticity: islanders live normally in their villages, restaurants serve genuine home cooking.
Places Worth Visiting
Marina Corricella in Procida is an enchantment of pastel houses in vivid colours reflecting in the sea: it was the backdrop for the film 'Procida' and remains one of Italy's most photographed villages. Ischia's Aragonese Castle, reached on foot in 30 minutes from Ischia Ponte, preserves medieval ruins and offers breathtaking gulf views. Lido dei Maronti in Ischia features black volcanic sand and natural hot springs for bathing in warm waters: an unforgettable bathing experience in the Mediterranean.
Practical tips
Wear comfortable shoes: coastal villages have narrow, uneven cobbled streets. Water shoes are essential for accessing beaches and rocky areas.
Rent a scooter to explore both islands at your pace. Public transport is limited and taxis are expensive. Remember to bring an international driving permit if coming from abroad.
Visit natural hot springs at sunset: immersing yourself in warm water as the sun sets is magical. Get a map of springs from local tourist offices.
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